To Lift or to Fill: Let’s Talk!

Facial aging is one of the primary concerns we treat in our Williamsburg plastic surgery office. In recent history, we have seen a dramatic shift in the preferences expressed by men and women of all ages. In some ways, the emergence of injectable anti-aging solutions has been an exciting transition. More people are finding their way back to a younger appearance, and that is making a different in how our patients feel about themselves. We love this! At the same time, the presence of non-surgical facial treatments may be creating some misperceptions. We’d like to address those here.

Injectables as a Natural Alternative to Facial Cosmetic Surgery

The idea that injectable neuromodulators like Botox and dermal fillers can replace a brow lift, eyelid surgery, or a facelift has some merit. However, it shouldn’t be taken as truth across the board. There are times when surgery is the better option. One of the reasons that surgical lifts are viewed by many people as outdated or unnecessary is because there is a strong message saying that injectables will look more natural. This is not a fact; it is a theory. And it has been proven wrong. If you tune into reality shows that involve high-end housewives, you’ll see just what we’re talking about.

Here’s what you need to know. A facelift or other surgical lift is no more likely to create an unnatural appearance than is filling the lips and cheeks and forehead creases to the hilt with organic material. Surgical protocols are very conservative these days, to the point where patients look younger, but others can’t quite tell why.

What about Costs?

Another common theory is that it is less costly to maintain a certain appearance with non-surgical treatments than to invest in blepharoplasty for younger-looking eyes or a facelift for a smoother jawline and rounder cheeks. This can be true when injectable treatments are used as an early line of defense against aging. There often comes a time, though, when touch-ups are needed too frequently to say that this approach is more cost-effective.

We prioritize the end-result for our patients but are also understanding of preferences. To learn more about your options for keeping that youthful vibe you want, call (757) 345-2275.